A 16-year-old boy who attacked another student with a sword at Neelin High School in Brandon, Manitoba, had intentions to harm more people, according to police. Thanks to the rapid intervention by school officials and police, further violence was averted.
The suspect stabbed a 15-year-old student multiple times in the chest, forearms, hands, and thigh. The victim is now in stable condition in hospital. Police responded within seven minutes of the 911 call and subdued the attacker using a stun gun, avoiding the need for lethal force.
Brandon Police Chief Tyler Bates emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating the accused had already made an attempt on a life and posed an active, lethal threat. “The presence of mind of our officers to incapacitate the offender is really quite remarkable,” Bates said.
The accused and the victim knew each other, but the motive remains under investigation. The 16-year-old faces charges including attempted murder, uttering threats, possession of a weapon, and wearing a disguise.
The attack triggered a school-wide lockdown and traumatized students and staff. Support systems were swiftly activated, and provincial exams were canceled to ease student stress. Community members, like parent Ingrid Pulleyblank, have responded with messages of support around the school.
Brandon School Division Superintendent Mathew Gustafson confirmed a crisis response team is in place. He noted that decades of lockdown preparedness helped minimize the damage. Authorities are also reviewing the security response and reaffirming the importance of emotional support and inclusion in school culture.
Chief Bates called the violence “deranged” and atypical for Brandon. He urged the community to seek mental health support and pledged ongoing efforts to assess risks and strengthen safety in schools.
Swifteradio.com
